Car manufacturers whose names begin with S

Several major car companies start with the letter S, ranging from mass-market brands to luxury makers. The most recognizable are Subaru, Suzuki, Seat, and Skoda. You will also encounter SsangYong, a South Korean manufacturer, and Scion, which was Toyota's youth-focused brand until it stopped making new cars in 2016. Each of these companies operates differently — some are independent, others are owned by larger automotive groups — and they serve different market segments and regions.

Understanding which S-brands are still actively selling new vehicles, where they operate, and what kinds of cars they make helps if you are shopping for a vehicle or straightforward curious about the automotive landscape. Some of these companies have been around for over a century; others are newer or have shifted their focus in recent years.

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru and Suzuki are independent Japanese manufacturers; Subaru specializes in all-wheel-drive vehicles and Suzuki focuses on compact and affordable models.
  • Seat and Skoda are European brands owned by the Volkswagen Group, with Skoda operating as a separate brand in many markets and Seat primarily selling in Europe.
  • SsangYong is a South Korean company that makes SUVs and crossovers, though availability varies by region.
  • Scion, Toyota's former brand, stopped producing new vehicles in 2016 but used models remain available on the secondhand market.

Subaru: Japanese all-wheel-drive specialist

Subaru is a Japanese automaker owned by Fuji Heavy Industries. The company is known for its standard all-wheel-drive systems across most of its lineup and its boxer engine design, where cylinders are arranged horizontally rather than vertically. This engine layout gives Subaru vehicles a lower center of gravity, which affects handling and safety characteristics.

Subaru sells sedans, crossovers, and SUVs in North America, Europe, and Asia. Popular models include the Outback (a wagon-like crossover), the Forester (a compact SUV), and the Impreza (a compact sedan and hatchback). The brand has built a reputation for reliability and is particularly popular in regions with snow and rough terrain. Subaru vehicles typically cost more than comparable models from other manufacturers because all-wheel drive is standard rather than optional.

Suzuki: Compact and affordable Japanese vehicles

Suzuki is another independent Japanese manufacturer, though it has had various partnerships over the decades. The company focuses on small, fuel-efficient cars and motorcycles. Suzuki vehicles are generally priced lower than competitors and are designed for buyers seeking basic transportation without premium features.

Suzuki's car lineup has shifted significantly by region. In Europe and some Asian markets, Suzuki sells the Swift (a compact hatchback), the Vitara (a small SUV), and the Jimny (a tiny off-road vehicle). In other regions, availability differs. Suzuki also manufactures motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The brand has a smaller global presence than Subaru and is less common in North America than it once was.

Seat and Skoda: Volkswagen Group European brands

Both Seat and Skoda are owned by the Volkswagen Group, a German conglomerate that also owns Audi, Porsche, and Bentley. Seat is a Spanish brand that primarily sells in Europe, focusing on affordable, practical vehicles. Skoda is a Czech brand with a longer history — it was founded in 1895 — and operates as a distinct brand across Europe and Asia.

Skoda has grown significantly in recent years and now competes directly with mainstream European brands. The company makes compact cars, sedans, and SUVs under names like the Octavia, Superb, and Kodiaq. Seat models include the Ibiza (a small hatchback) and the Arona (a compact SUV). Both brands use Volkswagen Group platforms and technology but maintain separate identities and pricing strategies. Skoda is generally positioned as a value brand with good build quality, while Seat targets younger, style-conscious buyers.

SsangYong: South Korean SUV manufacturer

SsangYong is a South Korean automaker that specializes in SUVs and crossovers. The company has faced financial difficulties over the years and has changed ownership multiple times. Currently, it is owned by a consortium of Indian and Korean investors. SsangYong vehicles are sold in Asia, Europe, and some other markets, though availability in North America is limited.

The brand makes models like the Tivoli (a compact SUV), the Korando (a mid-size SUV), and the Rexton (a larger SUV). SsangYong vehicles are typically priced competitively and marketed toward buyers seeking affordable SUV options. The company has invested in electric vehicle development in recent years as the automotive industry shifts toward electrification.

Scion: Toyota's discontinued youth brand

Scion was a brand created by Toyota in 2003 to appeal to younger buyers. The brand stopped producing new vehicles in 2016, though used Scions remain available on the secondhand market. Toyota decided to discontinue Scion because it was not achieving its sales targets and the company wanted to focus resources on the main Toyota brand.

Scion models included the xB (a boxy hatchback), the tC (a compact coupe), and the iA (a compact sedan). These vehicles were known for affordable pricing, customization options, and a youth-oriented marketing approach. If you are shopping for a used car, you may encounter Scion models from 2003 to 2016. Parts and service are available through Toyota dealerships since Scion vehicles share Toyota components and platforms.

Where these brands sell and what to expect

Availability of S-brand vehicles depends heavily on your location. Subaru and Suzuki have global reach, though their presence varies by region. Subaru is particularly strong in North America, Europe, and Japan. Suzuki is more common in Asia and Europe than in North America.

Seat and Skoda are primarily European brands, though Skoda has expanded into Asia and other markets. SsangYong vehicles are most common in Asia and parts of Europe. If you are shopping for a new vehicle from one of these brands, check your local dealership network first — some brands have limited dealer presence in certain areas, which affects service availability and resale value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Subaru and Suzuki owned by the same company?

No. Subaru is owned by Fuji Heavy Industries and Suzuki is independent. While both are Japanese manufacturers, they operate separately and have different product strategies. Subaru focuses on all-wheel drive and higher-priced vehicles, while Suzuki emphasizes affordability and compact models.

Can I buy a new Scion today?

No. Scion stopped making new vehicles in 2016. If you want a Scion, you will need to purchase a used model from that era through the secondhand market. Toyota dealerships can service Scion vehicles since they share Toyota parts and engineering.

Is Skoda a budget brand?

Skoda is positioned as a value brand within the Volkswagen Group, meaning it offers good quality and features at a lower price than Audi or Volkswagen. It is not a budget brand in the sense of being cheap or low-quality, but rather a practical choice for buyers seeking solid engineering without premium pricing.

Where can I find SsangYong vehicles?

SsangYong vehicles are most readily available in Asia, particularly South Korea, and in parts of Europe. Availability in North America is very limited. If you are interested in a SsangYong vehicle, check whether dealers operate in your region before shopping, as service networks are smaller than those of major brands.

Do all Subarus have all-wheel drive?

Most Subaru models come standard with all-wheel drive, which is a defining feature of the brand. However, some markets and trim levels may offer front-wheel-drive options. Check the specific model and year you are considering, as configurations vary.